4 reported killed as fire guts ferry in Philippines

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ANKARA (AA) - At least four people were killed when fire engulfed a ferry in southern Philippine waters, local media reported on Wednesday.

The MV Lite Ferry 16 -- carrying at least 187 people, including 37 crew members -- was gutted off the Port of Dapitan, Rappler online reported.

The victims include a 2-year-old child.

“111 passengers and 30 crew members have been rescued while 39 were still missing,” said Rolito Cataluna, a Dapitan city health officer.

Seven of the crew members remained aboard the burning ferry, the report said.

The ferry left Samboan town in southern Cebu and was just 1.5 nautical miles from Pulauan Port in Dapitan City when it caught fire early Wednesday.

The rescued passengers have been provided with food, medical aid and subsequently lodged at a hotel in Dipolog City.